American figure skater Michelle Kwan has pulled out of the Olympic Winter Games in Turin, Italy, dashing the superstar's hopes to win the one prize that has eluded her over a long and prestigious career - an Olympic gold medal.

Kwan withdrew from the games early Sunday due to a hip muscle injury and recurring groin strain. Kwan says taking herself off the team is the most difficult decision she has ever had to make.

The 25-year-old California native received a bye onto the Olympic team after missing the U.S. championships because of the groin injury.

Kwan has five world championships, nine U.S. titles, and silver and bronze Olympic medals.